NORTH PORT, Fla. — The parents of Gabby Petito have reached an agreement with the family of Brian Laundrie to avoid a civil trial.
The families participated in mediation on Wednesday.
Joseph Petito and Nichole Schmidt sued Christopher and Roberta Laundrie for "intentional infliction of emotional distress."
Gabby's parents claimed the Laundrie family knew Gabby was "gone" but did nothing to help. Instead, the Laundrie family issued press releases through their attorney, Steven Bertolino.
One press release was issued on September 14, 2021, and the other on September 19, 2021.
According to court records, specifically, on September 14, 2021, the Laundrie Parents, through Mr. Bertolino, acknowledged it was a difficult time for both families, expressed hope that the search for Ms. Petito would be successful and that she would be reunited with her family, and explained the Laundrie family would be remaining in the background and would have no further comment on advice of counsel.
On September 19, 2021, upon the discovery of Ms. Petito’s remains, the Laundrie Parents, through Mr. Bertolino, stated the news about Ms. Petito was heartbreaking and that the Laundrie family was praying for Ms. Petito and her family.
Bertolino sent ABC Action News a statement regarding the confidential agreement reached on Wednesday.
"Christopher and Roberta Laundrie and I participated in mediation with the Petito family and the civil lawsuit has now been resolved. The terms of the resolution are confidential, and we look forward to putting this matter behind us," said Bertolino.
ABC Action News received the following statement from Joseph and Tara Petito and Nichole and James Schmidt.
"After a long day of mediation, a confidential resolution has been reached between the parents of Gabby Petito, the parents of Brian Laundrie and Attorney Steven Bertolino to which all parties reluctantly agreed in order to avoid further legal expenses and prolonged personal conflict. Our hope is to close this chapter of our lives to allow us to move on and continue to honor the legacy of our beautiful daughter, Gabby."
Their lawyer, Attorney Patrick Reilly, also released the following statement.
Gabby's body was discovered outside Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming in 2021.
